“Circle” . . . The suggestion is made to sit in a circle because there is an implied equality . . . every person equidistant from the center. Each voice is listened to with respect for the unique perspective it holds. It is further understood that in a circle, each person’s face can be seen by all, enhancing understanding. In Who Speaks For Wolf, grandfather reminds us, “it is our nature to understand the reality that lies beyond by watching its reflection in our brother’s face.”

There is no hierarchy or authority. Generally a “talking stick” is passed around the circle from one person to the next as each in turn speaks his wisdom into the center for consideration. A “talking stick” can be any item you wish to use that has meaning for those gathered. There are two rules that apply in a Circle. One, you can only speak when you have the “talking stick” in your hand. And two, you must listen attentively and with respect to each person as they speak. Anyone, at any time, can refrain from speaking when their turn comes, simply by passing the stick to the next person. “No” is always an acceptable response.

“Circle” represents the wholeness of life . . . the steps around this particular wheel, “The Great Hoop of Life,” represent the sequential way we tend to understand it. Life is whole, understanding always partial. The only things we truly know are the nature and content of our own perceptions. Everything is thought of in terms of perception . . . therefore there can be no argument, just one person and another holding different views. So, we listen, and listen further to the perceptions of others in order that we might understand and learn what might be true for them.

As you begin to discover the wisdom within the Great Hoop of Life, consider the source of this Wisdom in the following passage from The Walking People. It is called, “Circles on the Earth,” and is found on page 233.

NOW AS THE WINTERS TURNED . . .

IT CAME TO BE

that they asked and were allowed

a special responsibility

for Circles to the South

and this came to be understood

as the Circle of Growth.

AND YET THERE WERE OTHER CIRCLES

CIRCLES TO THE NORTH

became Wisdom’s Way,

the way the People had come,

the way the oldest among them remembered.

CIRCLES TO THE EAST

became the Dawn Greeting Circle,

the New Day Coming Circle,

it was dark and now I see the Circle.

This Circle, too,

was seen as having a great value.

CIRCLES TO THE WEST

became the Quest for Understanding Circle,

even as the Two Strong Brothers

had circled West, expecting to return,

so others had circled now

in celebration of such wisdom,

the need to learn and to understand.

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